centerpiece

noun

cen·​ter·​piece ˈsen-tər-ˌpēs 

ˈse-nər-

1

: an object occupying a central position

especially : an adornment in the center of a table

2

: one that is of central importance or interest in a larger whole

the centerpiece of a political agenda

Synonyms

• bottom line
• bull's-eye
• core
• crux
• essence
• gist
• heart
• kernel
• keynote
• meat
• meat and potatoes
• net
• nub
• nubbin
• nucleus
• pith
• pivot
• point
• root
• sum

Examples of centerpiece in a Sentence

resolution of the original dispute became the centerpiece of the negotiations

Recent Examples on the Web

The clams are a lovely yet rustic first course, to be followed by the chicken as a hearty centerpiece and the salad as a refreshing side dish. —Lidey Heuck, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 May 2024

The Indianapolis 500 itself is, of course, the centerpiece of the Memorial Day weekend schedule. —Amy Lynch, Chicago Tribune, 8 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

centerpiece

noun

cen·​ter·​piece ˈsent-ər-ˌpēs 

: a piece put in the center of something and especially a decoration (as flowers) for the center of a table